Period Room Design: Scandinavian Modern

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Sienna Simmons Final Paper 12/15/21 Scandinavian Design: An Age of Modernity Based on Function, Aesthetics, and Organic Form Introduction Scandinavian Modern Design is a period of modernity where there is a new focus on people and their wellbeing in relation to the design of environments and furniture. To evaluate this impact, this essay will explore these questions; How do new materials, organic form, and a focus on function–redefine modernity in the Scandinavian Modern period? And how do these key design elements lead to the creation of new spaces that reflect the social beliefs of the time? The findings of this paper will be represented in the creation of a period room specifically designed to emulate the Scandinavian Modern era. History & Development of Design Concepts Scandinavian design originated in Denmark, Sweden, Finland, and Norway in the 20th century. Generally, the style is simple, functional, incorporates a concern for the individual, and prioritizes using natural materials. It also draws elements from Bauhaus and International Style modernism. More significantly, designers from the period believed that architecture and design are not just about aesthetics, but must also consider economical housing and functionality for all citizens. Hence, making design accessible to all was important. This belief led to the development of design pieces being modest, adaptable, and constructed using simple methods.1 This new focus on human-centered design through ergonomics and function, resulted from a period where the government focused on the well-being of the public. For example, in 1910, Sweden was in the lead for public housing by improving housing standards and guidelines. Additionally, Sweden, along with many other neighboring Scandinavian countries, were Social Welfare States.2 Meaning, the government prioritized the social and economic wellbeing of their citizens through programs such as providing health care for all. It is also important to note that industrialization had a more of a gradual impact compared to in Europe, and Scandinavian countries were agrarian societies until the end of the 19th century. Because of this, countries were able to maintain folk culture and traditional craft.3 This focus on tradition resulted in the use of natural materials for design construction, instead of solely focusing on new materials brought on by the Industrial Revolution. In addition, as Scandinavia was less industria-centric, it can be argued that this led to more of an emphasis placed on the beauty of nature. This appreciation is reflected in the organic and curvilinear forms used in Scandinavian Modern design. Scandinavian architecture also incorporated the

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Buie Harwood,“Chapter 52: Scandinavian Modern,” in Architecture and Interior Design: An Integrated History to the Present (Vancouver, B.C.: Langara College, 2016). 2 IBID 3 IBID


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